Rok, I was just thinking, and I want an honest answer to this question; have you ever heard any better jazz in your life, than you have since I started this thread?
Enjoy the music.
Jazz for aficionados
Jazz for aficionados
I'm going to review records in my collection, and you'll be able to decide if they're worthy of your collection. These records are what I consider "must haves" for any jazz aficionado, and would be found in their collections. I wont review any record that's not on CD, nor will I review any record if the CD is markedly inferior. Fortunately, I only found 1 case where the CD was markedly inferior to the record.
Our first album is "Moanin" by Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers. We have Lee Morgan , trumpet; Benney Golson, tenor sax; Bobby Timmons, piano; Jymie merrit, bass; Art Blakey, drums.
The title tune "Moanin" is by Bobby Timmons, it conveys the emotion of the title like no other tune I've ever heard, even better than any words could ever convey. This music pictures a person whose down to his last nickel, and all he can do is "moan".
"Along Came Betty" is a tune by Benny Golson, it reminds me of a Betty I once knew. She was gorgeous with a jazzy personality, and she moved smooth and easy, just like this tune. Somebody find me a time machine! Maybe you knew a Betty.
While the rest of the music is just fine, those are my favorite tunes. Why don't you share your, "must have" jazz albums with us.
Enjoy the music.
I'm going to review records in my collection, and you'll be able to decide if they're worthy of your collection. These records are what I consider "must haves" for any jazz aficionado, and would be found in their collections. I wont review any record that's not on CD, nor will I review any record if the CD is markedly inferior. Fortunately, I only found 1 case where the CD was markedly inferior to the record.
Our first album is "Moanin" by Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers. We have Lee Morgan , trumpet; Benney Golson, tenor sax; Bobby Timmons, piano; Jymie merrit, bass; Art Blakey, drums.
The title tune "Moanin" is by Bobby Timmons, it conveys the emotion of the title like no other tune I've ever heard, even better than any words could ever convey. This music pictures a person whose down to his last nickel, and all he can do is "moan".
"Along Came Betty" is a tune by Benny Golson, it reminds me of a Betty I once knew. She was gorgeous with a jazzy personality, and she moved smooth and easy, just like this tune. Somebody find me a time machine! Maybe you knew a Betty.
While the rest of the music is just fine, those are my favorite tunes. Why don't you share your, "must have" jazz albums with us.
Enjoy the music.
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I was just thinking, and I want an honest answer to this question; have you ever heard any better jazz in your life, than you have since I started this thread?***** I take this to mean, "what music have you purchased as a result of that music being posted and reviewed on this thread"? Artist I have purchased based on recommendations on this thread: Harold Land, Woody Shaw, Trio Tres Bien and Anita O'Day. I doubt if any people buy music based on this thread. I define "New Music" as music I had not heard before, played by an artist I was not previously aware of. So the answer to your question is, Yes. Cheers |
As I have stated a number of times before; "you tube" enables us to get all the music we missed; I thought I had everything recorded by Yusef Lateef in this time period, but I don't have this particular record. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YoapuIvv_4 Yusef Lateef is an artist I admired from the first time I heard him; that's because he was so exotic and unusual, even the instruments he plays are unusual; flute, oboe, bamboo flute, shenai, and argol. Enjoy the music. |
When I saw Ahmad live in Chicago, he was working with a guy on steel drums. Here's "Poinciana", but with steel drums, it's a lot different. That's the thing about Ahmad; he can get so many different sounds out of the same tune, that it's new all over again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHpaSAXANqU Enjoy the music. |
That was the same guy I saw him with in Chicago, Othello Molineaux; he spent much time with Jaco Pastorius. I see he also worked with Eliane Elius, the lovely Brazilian vocalist; that sounds like a beautiful combination. The people went wild over Othello on steel drums in Chicago. I see he appears on an album "Nature" by Ahmad; that should be interesting, and a must have for me before I even hear it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVnCnmIrDgU Enjoy the music. |
rpeluso, why talk to yourself, when you can talk to us? Since you have been watching this thread for a very long time, you've seen it's ups and downs. Initially this thread was designed to help "Jazz Aficionados" to acquire new music, and enjoy the music in other aficionados collections, but occasionally this aficionado trolley jumps it's tracks and goes off to who knows where. Now I'm trying to get it back on the "jazz track". I'm sure you have a good jazz collection that you would like to share with us; that's what we have in common. As far as old; that's what happens when you live too long, but the other option is not at all pretty. Why don't you tell us a little about your favorite music and musicians. Enjoy the music. |
I have been catching up this evening on what has been happening in this thread in the last few weeks. One of Rok's recent comments struck me as very strange: "One of the problems with this thread is that, too many posts are directed at, and posted for the benefit of the 'viewers' , and not directed at their fellow posters." Huh? The whole point of posting on an open forum is so many people can read what you are posting. This thread is not a private conversation, it is a public one. If you want it to be private, you should exchange email addresses and have your conversation that way. I personally feel that the biggest reason that there aren't very many posters on this thread is that some of you (including the OP) have made it crystal clear that you do not welcome (or even have any respect for) views that disagree with yours, regardless of the relative merits of the opinions expressed. Many have commented on this here over the last few years and have been ignored, laughed off, and even vilified. These attitudes just don't lend themselves to the participation of others, which is a real shame, as this thread was an excellent idea and it still has many excellent posts in it. I will take my share of the blame for saying some things in a way I probably shouldn't have in response, which always turns people off. There is a reason I am a musician and not a writer. I have stuck with this thread, though, and will probably continue to, as I have learned a great deal from it. |
Learsfool, it's good to hear from you, constructive criticism is always welcomed, and it's coming at just the right time. We are in the process of making this a better thread, and the fact that it has attracted highly esteemed posters such as yourself, speaks volumes for the thread. When posters are honest, and truly believe whatever they have posted, even if it's wrong, that's a good post. In regard to why we don't get new members, one of the reasons is the fact that people here are more interested in equipment than music. While there are other reasons that I don't know, I would rather have high quality, than high quantity. Enjoy the music. |
Jamal: Poinciana in Poznan 1998: It was my understanding that most artist get tired of, and resent playing their biggest hits over and over, due to public demand. They want to move on and showcase their talents. Not so with Jamal and 'Poinciana'. He seems to relish playing it where ever he goes. Besides, the date at The Pershing is the definitive version. Spoiled only an indifferent audience. Cheers |
Regardless as to how many different ways that it's played, the one that was made at the "Pershing" is the definitive "Poinciana", at least it's my favorite. No matter how many times he redoes things, the first one is the best, according to me. Records and live appearances are different to the point, the live audience probably wants to hear his best hits redone, while as a record enthusiast, I want something new, but I would not have discovered that if I hadn't focused on his "discography". Enjoy the music. |
Rok, I just received Ahmads album with Othello on steel drums; it was recorded in 98, and I saw them in Chicago in the early 80's, and I was hoping to duplicate that experience. Although this CD doesn't even come close to that night in Chicago, it's OK; but I don't want a CD that's just OK, all of those OK CD's are going on the market. You must take into consideration that both men were approximately 20 years younger, and they were on fire in Chicago. As we get older we lose whatever we had when we were younger, and musicians are no different; that's why Ahmad's best work is behind him, but I'm sure he's still very entertaining on a live set. Mary Lou Williams is the only artist I can think of who seemed to retain every thing all the way up to the end. Enjoy the music. |
The Jamal CD 'Nature The Essence Part 3' was recorded in 1997/98. I suggest you trust the guys that review Jazz for a living. Find one with similar taste as your own and buy what they say is 'must have'. At least that will give you a place to look on you-tube. Scott Yanow is my review guru. Just make sure you understand that they will praise certain recordings in all Jazz styles. So, when he says a certain CD by Ornette Coleman is a 'must have', I just smile and turn the page. A band has to be pretty awful not to sound good 'live'. In many cases it's not the music, but the atmosphere / women, that cloud the memories. They don't sound as good as you remember, because they probably never did. Cheers Listening to McCoy Tyner tonight. SAMA LAYUCA and 4 X 4. Cheers |
I bought that record "Sama Layuca" about the time it came out, and proceeded to play it to death. I have observed a regrettable fact; when your favorite sideman is the leader on a record, it doesn't come out as well as you would expect; even when he has top personnel with him. "Benny Golson and the Philadelphians" with Lee Morgan, Ray Bryant, Percy Heath on Bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums; has to be a good record; right? But it's just OK. If Blakey had led the same group of men, it would have been out of sight. My point is; you got leaders and followers, when they switch positions, things just don't work out as well. Another example is Pepper Adams, the great baritone sax man, who was dynamite with Mingus or Donald Byrd; doesn't come off as well when he's the leader. Don't know why not, such is life. Enjoy the music. |
This is fascinating and Mark gets Gold Star for being correct! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Arzi1pLBzqw |
As Gerry Mulligan said he does not think about where jazz is going but he doesn't think much of "niche" jazz, and free jazz is chaotic (noise). As far as where jazz is going, he was too concerned with where he was going to think about that. Free jazz is "noise" in my opinion, no matter who was blowing it, and that includes JC; Miles said more or less the same thing. "West Coast" jazz doesn't get any better than the "Gerry Mulligan Quartet". Enjoy the music. |
Here we have the top jazz vocal group to appear on "Jazz Casual"; Lambert, Hendricks, and Bavan; putting "Cousin Mary" to vocal gymnastics. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKNW-IwzTdU Enjoy the music. |
Actually I was referring to Jerry Garcia and Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead. When they got funky, jazzy, free roamin' free lancing, with Wynton Marsalis for example, their phrasing had roots in jazz similar to Getz and Byrd. The Dead paid tribute to numerous artists and styles including Dylan, Haggard, Bo Diddly, Chuck Barry, jazz, blues, country, you name it. This Getz and Byrd record has some truly trippy riffs, plus the recording quality is as good as I've ever heard on my vinyl rig. Tremendous clarity and dynamics. |
Mark, Only funny because I never thought you meant the Grateful Dead. I was just playing around when I played the Dead. For a while I thought you were talking about my Uncle Bob and his son Jerry, but I called and they said no. What do you think (anyone out there)? Decide for yourself. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kO1oB9fgpFc |
I discovered Stacey Kent quite by accident, and was totally captivated by her, the song, and the music. The song was "Close Your Eyes", and when I heard the words, I wanted to close my eyes, while leaning on Stacey Kent's shoulder. That's when you know the vocalist has something very special; when she can pull you into the song, and you are with her body and soul. If you have a vivid imagination, you can see yourself next to her living out the words to the song. Stacey Kent has the power to cast her spell on all who listen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kThnXY2yaZw Enjoy the music. |
Ran across this the other day. Noticed in the comments that Getz and Byrd were enemies. Did anyone like Getz? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1OxyUaw2nA |
O-10 Good call on the Stacy Kent. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUg9RB1uhqM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9K9vT6wvfSc |
Acman, glad you liked it; she really makes a song come to life, and the music blends in so perfectly, I could listen to her all night. I'm listening to "Isn't This A Lovely Day", and I can hear what I just stated above. It's for sure I'm going to have to follow up on Stacey Kent. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9K9vT6wvfSc&list=RD9K9vT6wvfSc#t=130 I like this French song and I don't even speak the language. Enjoy the music. |
Acman, here's the "Wikipedia" link on Stacey Kent; it makes for an easy reference in regard to her "Discopgraphy" and almost every thing else of importance. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stacey_Kent Enjoy the music. |
This is ultimate "Be-Bop", in the same class with the best of "Bird"; now that's saying a lot. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWqQf05dMJ8 Enjoy the music. |
Acman, I must have that album; it was the last by the greatest small group in that era. Clifford Brown - trumpet Sonny Rollins – tenor saxophone Richie Powell – piano, celesta George Morrow – double bass Max Roach – drums The album was identified by Scott Yanow in his Allmusic essay "Hard Bop" as one of the 17 Essential Hard Bop Recordings. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clifford_Brown_and_Max_Roach_at_Basin_Street This is the album that was my major introduction to jazz. My cousin in Chicago had an extensive jazz collection, and "Delilah" was my favorite cut on this LP in 56 when I was there. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nt_fmhtePoc Clifford Brown – trumpet Harold Land – tenor saxophone George Morrow – bass Richie Powell – piano Max Roach – drums The only difference is tenor sax man Harold Land as opposed to Sonny Rollins; since I liked both, I must have both. Enjoy the music. |
Each one of the "oleschool" Diva's has something that's unique and special; Abbey Lincoln has a kind of "hipness" in the way she delivers her songs that separates her from the other Diva's. How was the weather on the French Riviera? I prefer the Fall for the Med myself, it's much cooler then. Are you just passing by, or do you intend to stay awhile? Enjoy the music. |
The jazz world lost a couple more great artists. Vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson left us last week, and today I learned that harmonica player Toots Thielemans passed away. Hutcherson was one of the very first jazz musicians I experienced in a live performance at San Francisco's Both And Club in the '70s. Being rather Bay Area based, there were other opportunities to see/hear Bobby over the years. Although I never caught Toots live, I remember first hearing that sweet harmonica solo from Quincy's "Walking in Space" album. He always had his own recognizable sound. These guys will be missed. |
Strateahed, they will be missed very much by me; both artists are heavily represented in my collection, and I go back as far as I can remember with Toots Thielemans. I can only imagine what it was like to see Bobby Hutcherson perform; and you have memories of seeing him live, that means that every time you play something you actually saw him perform, you can recall that memory so much more vividly, and relive that moment when you were with him. Enjoy their music. |
Bobby Hutcherson, born January 17 1941, died August 15 2016; was one of the finest players of the vibraphone. He was born in Los Angeles, and brought up in Pasedena. He was so impressed by Milt Jackson at age 12 that he began to save up to buy a vibraphone. He appears on Jackie McLean’s One Step Beyond (1963), and Tony Williams’s Lifetime (1964). This is followed by albums, many regarded as classics, such as Eric Dolphy’s "Out To Lunch" (1964) and his own "Stick Up" (1966), with McCoy Tyner and Joe Henderson. He was also a founder member of the San Francisco-based SF Jazz Collective, formed in 2004. This was a truly all-star outfit, including saxophonist Joshua Redman, trumpeter Nicholas Payton and pianist Renee Rosnes, which received rave notices when it appeared at the Barbican in 2006. In 2007, Hutcherson began to suffer from emphysema. This developed to the point where he was obliged to carry an oxygen supply with him wherever he went. He was my favorite vibraphonist next to Milt Jackson; but in 1971 he was named “World’s Best Vibist” in the International Jazz Critics’ Poll. Although I never thought about it, during the period of time from 1971, until his death, Bobby Hutcherson was my favorite vibraphonist. Enjoy his music. |